R360 League Athletes Face 10-Season Exclusion from NRL

Australian rugby league's governing body has stated that athletes who join the “rebel” R360 competition will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

The proposed competition, which plans to launch in October 2026, is seeking to lure players from union and league with substantial agreements and a condensed playing schedule.

Prominent National Rugby League stars have reportedly received offers by the new league, which will involve six to eight men's clubs and four women's teams based in key urban centers worldwide.

Samoa's the rugby star, who represents the Warriors in the NRL, has confirmed he has had talks with the breakaway league.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be considering joining R360.

A group of rugby union nations, such as Australia, earlier imposed a restriction on athletes signing with R360 participating in global fixtures.

“We have consulted our clubs and we've responded strongly,” said the league's head V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will persistently exist entities that try to exploit our code for potential financial gain.

“They avoid funding in development systems or the development of talent. They only leverage the hard work of others, putting players at risk of financial loss while profiting themselves.

“Essentially, they are, imitating the sport.”

R360 is co-founded by retired international Mike Tindall and supported by commercial backers.

Following the prospective rugby union sanctions were announced recently, it commented: “We aim to collaborate in partnership as a component of the worldwide fixture list.

“The event is structured with bespoke schedules for male and female sides and we will release all players for international matches, as specified in their contracts.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from rugby union's governing body, rugby union's regulatory group, at its council meeting in 2026.